Currently, North Dakota allows primary candidates to get on the primary ballot by two methods: (1) win substantial support at a party endorsements meeting; or (2) petition for a place on the ballot.

Two bills have been introduced to alter these methods. HB 1446 would eliminate the party endorsements choice; HB 1424 would strengthen the party endorsements method, by providing that if anyone gets a majority at such meetings, no primary is needed. See this story.